this is how i did it
took my logbooks to the CAA battleship building next to Gatwick airport. they took them and my credit card. charged 70 pounds i think it was. kept the logbooks for a couple of weeks and mailed them back and gave me an assessment stating what i had to do. that assessment was only due for one year's time.
i had applied for a JAA licence and they agreed to give me one, but limited to G-plate aircraft. i had to take the air law, human performnce, and a radio telephone lab test. then i would need a sim ride and i would supposedly get the ATPL with a B737 rating attached.
i had over 5000 hours PIC in the B737 and was currently flying at VEX in BRU. on a FAA ATP, which in europe, is about as useful as the ashtray on the space shuttle. presently on leave of absence to get this licence.
still waiting on the sim ride.
also told that if i take all the written tests for the ATPL i will have the UK restriction removed. so i am presently only 4 tests away from that with those 4 to be taken Feb 6th.
still no date on the sim.
cheers;